AMD to unleash six-core "Thuban" processors

AMD has confirmed that it will release, next year, a new processor codenamed "Thuban". The six-core processor, it notes, will be compatible with AM2+ and AM3 motherboards. The name of the six-core Processor would be Phenom II X6. It will feature an integrated DDR2/DDR3 and will be base on the 45nm architecture.

Judging from the heat generated by already existing Quad Core processors, will AMD compromise standard by reducing the clock speeds in Phenom II X6 to keep the heat down? Can software developers, who are already struggling with Quad Core, keep abreast with the need of a six-core processor? Is this just another case of the rider running faster than the horse?